An investigation of strategic responses to organizational environment: a case of the Ministry of Health response to non-communicable diseases in Kenya

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Once viewed as afflictions limited to the developed world, non-communicable diseases - including cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, diabetes, and cancers - are rising quickly in low- and middle-income countries like Kenya. Despite the recognition of the high demand for specific responses towards the non-communicable diseases, there has been no study that has concentrated on the organizational responses to non communicable diseases in developing countries and Kenya in particular. It was against this background that the researcher aimed to fill this academic gap by carrying out a research into the strategic responses to organizational environment with a focus on the Ministry of Health response to non-communicable diseases in Kenya. The main objective of this study was to investigate the strategic responses to organizational environment where the focus was on the Ministry of Health response to non-communicable diseases. This research problem was studied through the use of a descriptive research design. The target population of 210 individuals composed of departmental heads, assistant departmental heads and lower cadre staffs like the supervisors, accounts and finance officers currently employed at the Ministry of Health in Nairobi. Stratified random sampling technique was used where a sample of 42 respondents were selected from within each group in proportions that each group bore to the study population. The study made use of a survey questionnaire administered to each member of the sample population. The researcher administered the questionnaire individually to all respondents of the study. Quantitative data collected was analyzed by the use of descriptive statistics. The information was presented in form of bar, charts, graphs and pie charts. The prospects for non-communicable disease prevention and control are improving gradually in the Country through stakeholder intervention, policy measures, technological responses and awareness creation. Sustained progress will occur when governments, relevant international agencies, non-governmental agencies, and civil society
acknowledge that public health must include non-communicable diseases and their risk factors. Stronger and broader alliances of major health professional bodies, consumer groups, enlightened industries, and academics are needed to effectively prioritize prevention of major risk factors for non-communicable diseases. Multi-stakeholder and intergovernmental mechanisms and other non-binding measures are better options in fighting the menace of the non-communicable diseases. Well-coordinated and effective response should be scaled up to technical support in the Country. The Government should provide the right incentives and individuals must protect their own health. Civic groups and other organizations must maintain pressure for responsible marketing and business must produce healthier and more sustainable goods.